If you’re craving something that’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, this 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Bright lemon, comforting creaminess, and perfectly baked salmon come together in a dish that looks impressive but feels effortless. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of tender fish and zesty, silky sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. From the rich salmon to the tangy yogurt and zesty lemon, these simple elements come together to elevate every bite.
- 1 lb Salmon filet: Choose fresh or thawed salmon with skin on for juicy, flaky results.
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain): Adds a creamy tang without heaviness, perfect for the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp Butter: Brings rich depth and a luscious texture to the lemon sauce.
- 1 tsp Thyme (dried): A fragrant herb that complements salmon beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice: Provides the fresh, bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
- ½ tsp Garlic powder (divided): Offers mild garlic flavor without overpowering the salmon.
- 1 Tbsp green onions (sliced): Adds a fresh, crisp bite as a garnish.
- Salt and pepper (as desired): Essential seasonings to enhance every other flavor.
How to Make 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Salmon
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the salmon gently and pat it completely dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and prevents sogginess. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and half the garlic powder evenly over the fish, allowing the flavors to settle in as it cooks.
Step 2: Bake the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through but still moist. This step ensures the salmon stays tender and juicy.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small pot over low heat. Once melted, whisk in the Greek yogurt, dried thyme, lemon juice, remaining garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is well combined into a smooth, creamy sauce with a delightful tang.
Step 4: Serve with Sauce and Garnishes
Once the salmon is cooked, plate it carefully and drizzle generously with the creamy lemon sauce. Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish that adds a little crunch and color to your beautiful dish.
How to Serve 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh herbs, lemon slices, or extra chopped green onions brightens the plate and invites that welcoming homemade feel. These little touches enhance the dish’s vibrant flavors and make your meal visually stunning.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs wonderfully with light, colorful sides such as garlic roasted asparagus, quinoa salad, or a simple mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette. These accompaniments balance the creamy sauce and add texture and freshness to the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salmon on a bed of couscous or mashed potatoes to soak up every last drop of the lemon sauce. Alternatively, stack it over sautéed spinach or serve alongside grilled vegetables for a rustic yet elegant presentation guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the lemon sauce separately if possible, to maintain its fresh texture and flavor when reheating.
Freezing
While fresh salmon is best, you can freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. The sauce freezes less well, so it’s better to prepare it fresh after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat salmon gently in a low oven (about 275°F) or on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. Add the lemon sauce fresh after warming the fish to keep its creamy consistency intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish?
Absolutely! While salmon is perfect for this recipe, other firm fish like cod or halibut can work well baked and served with the creamy lemon sauce.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for the sauce?
Greek yogurt provides the right creamy tang and thickness, but you could substitute with sour cream or crème fraîche if preferred. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. Baking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this entire recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients.
What if I don’t have dried thyme?
Dried thyme adds an herbal note to the sauce, but you can substitute with fresh thyme or other herbs like dill or parsley for a different but equally delicious flavor.
Final Thoughts
This 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe is such a gem for quick, impressive meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or style. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the richness of the sauce makes it a standout dish you will want to make again and again. Give it a try tonight and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner right at home!
Print
20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This 20 Minute Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender salmon fillets are seasoned and baked to perfection, then topped with a zesty, creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs. The sauce adds a refreshing tang that complements the rich flavor of the salmon, making it a delightful meal that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 lb Salmon filet (approx. 1 lb)
- Salt, as desired
- Pepper, as desired
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder (for seasoning salmon)
Creamy Lemon Sauce
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- Pepper, as desired
- 1 Tbsp Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and season salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season the salmon evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Bake the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the creamy lemon sauce: While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, remove the pot from heat and stir in the plain Greek yogurt, dried thyme, lemon juice, remaining 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the sauce thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: When the salmon is fully cooked, plate the fillets and drizzle the creamy lemon sauce evenly over the top. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon; it should remain moist and tender.
- Plain Greek yogurt can be substituted with sour cream if desired.
- Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to taste for a more or less tangy sauce.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for more servings.
